coins

turning over these tiny coins
dearly minted
I realise I spent them
too soon, too quickly, I should have
held them in my hand, hoarded,
not let go, like minutes
you want to keep
and treasure
and never lose - all the you's -
and there have been many -
precious moments spent
like coins spilling from the fingers
like water you could not
cup in your hand
sparkling as the droplets fall
coins striking the paving stones -
ringing sounds -
of things you bought
and lost
let go unwillingly
and paid for in dearest coin
the heart's gold - listen:
all of the selves you sold
hitting the pavement
like money

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